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LYING HERE, DECEPTION THERE-HEED THE RIGHT VOICE

Oct27

Every day we draw closer to the day of our LORD’s appearance! When we turn on our electronic devices or listen to the news we can see the forces of darkness encroaching in on our world. Men and women are being used to perpetuate fear, dread and separation among families, friends and communities. The media is collaborating with the oligarchs in trying to push out a constant stream of division and so many are falling for the lies being pushed. BE AFRAID OF YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS. BE AFRAID OF ANYONE THAT DIFFERS IN OPINION TO YOU.

It is tragic that even some followers of Christ have accepted this mantra and are allowing fear, an enemy of faith, to govern their actions. Fear is keeping them from reaching out to others and sharing the gospel. It is keeping them from gathering with fellow believers as we have been told to continue to do, even more so as the day of the LORD draws closer.

I pray that we all will take our eyes off of the current agenda and focus on the Creator of the universe. The ONE that is able to keep us through storms, trials and anything else that may come at us. The ONE that is still in control. He has already told us how things end and HE and we win! Though we see leaders of every level of government seemingly pushing the same agenda, worldwide, we do not need to fixate on their plans.

“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.”~Matthew 10:16 The Holy Spirit will give us the discernment and wisdom to see what is going on if/when we ask Him. He will also equip us to navigate through the mire while retaining our love for others. It is so easy to get caught up in bitterness and anger towards those bringing about the current tyranny worldwide. One only needs to look at Australia to see how the people are being oppressed on every level. Our natural inclination is to say, “LORD where are you? Why aren’t you doing anything to help the people?” However, none of this is catching God off guard. In fact He warned us about what would be coming to this world. He also told us to not be afraid! It is not up to us to deal with those oppressing the people. It is beyond our capabilities. That being said, we need not worry about the instigators getting away with all these things. Jesus told us as much.

Then He said to the disciples, “It is impossible that no offenses should come, but WOE TO HIM through whom they do come!~Luke 17:1

When the Son of God says, “Woe to him,” we know they will be dealt with in God’s time. Our job is to continue to speak the truth, love on others, encourage the body of Christ and share the gospel with those we meet. Unapologetically.

So if you are feeling overwhelmed with all you see and hear, turn your eyes back onto the Savior. Ask Him for discernment which you will need to see what is really going on and for the wisdom to walk through it in victory! Let His voice drown out all the fear and division. Titus 2:1-13 tells us how to live while we wait on the appearance of our beautiful King!

As for you, Titus, promote the kind of living that reflects wholesome teaching.  Teach the older men to exercise self-control, to be worthy of respect, and to live wisely. They must have sound faith and be filled with love and patience.

 Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander others or be heavy drinkers. Instead, they should teach others what is good.  These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children,  to live wisely and be pure, to work in their homes, to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the word of God.

 In the same way, encourage the young men to live wisely.  And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching.  Teach the truth so that your teaching can’t be criticized. Then those who oppose us will be ashamed and have nothing bad to say about us.

 Slaves must always obey their masters and do their best to please them. They must not talk back  or steal, but must show themselves to be entirely trustworthy and good. Then they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive in every way.

 For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people.  And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God,  while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed.

Be blessed!

LYING HERE, DECEPTION THERE-HEED THE RIGHT VOICE

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Pray and Prepare

Feb10

As followers of Christ, our trust will always be in God. We KNOW He is the One who will bring us through whatever we must face in the future. By abiding in Him, He will guide us and give us the wisdom and discernment we need to navigate. One thing I have sensed lately is a leading to prepare for difficult times that may be coming as a result of the financial overspending of our governments. That along with the fact that many people are losing their jobs and are being put in very difficult financial stress. As long as this pandemic is drawn out, this will only increase. On top of all this, governments all over the world are having animals slaughtered due to potential covid contamination. Whether there is any legitimate reason to do this or not they are creating a future environment of limits of food. All of this can be researched online and it leads me to promote that each of us put away some dry goods and canned goods along with bottled water for the future.

The idea of preparing for potential shortages and increased hardship is not taking away from the fact our God will see us through. It is however using wisdom based on what is currently happening. Your ability to take care of your family and perhaps others in need will be a huge advantage in such a case. But those who won’t care for their relatives, especially those in their own household, have denied the true faith. Such people are worse than unbelievers. (1 Timothy 5:8) The signs are all here for us to see that difficult days are coming economically and spiritually. This would also be a very good time to reduce unnecessary spending and work on reducing or ridding your life of debt. The governments are not going to be reliable to count on in this coming storm. So for each of us to prepare in whatever way we can is wise. Remember how God used Joseph to prepare for stormy days and he was used mightily in staving off starvation for his people.

I would suggest each of us pray and ask God what it is we can do to prepare. This will vary greatly depending on our location, our financial situation and the resources available to us. I do believe it is a good idea to do what we can. A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences. (Proverbs 27:12)

Preparing is not replacing our trust in God. We know ultimately God has us in His hand and will care for us but that does not mean when we see what is coming, we are to ignore it and not do what we can to prepare. That is just wisdom. So do not get stressed or anxious. Ask God for direction in what it is you can do and than do it. He tells us that if we need wisdom we are to ask and He will give it to us freely! If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. (James 1:5) If you are not in a position to do anything at this time, do not worry. God knows that. He has your back!

Have a blessed day!

Do Your Part

Feb8

Things are certainly changing in our world and so are the attitudes of many towards the body of Christ. Christians are being considered as radicals that are intolerant of things considered wicked by God. Many followers of Christ are finally waking up to realize that they can no longer count on any form of government for support or shelter. Though this will make life much more difficult it will also help us to realize that our security has never been and never will never be in our rulers. Our security comes from our relationship with Jesus Christ alone, along with the support of our brothers and sisters in Christ. We, in North America, are now being faced with this when Christians all over the world have been dealing with this reality for decades and in some cases centuries.

With some of the new legislations coming about we are being weaned off of milk and are being forced to search for the meat of the Word. The church of the future will no longer be about entertainment and comfort but will instead be about those who really want to stay close to the LORD and are willing to risk much to gather and support and build up one another in faith. Our faith is likely about to be tested like never before.

Though our future may look scary we have to remember that we were born for a time such as this. None of what is happening is a surprise to God. He knew when we were formed in our mother’s wombs what the future would hold for us. He will see us through whatever comes our way. My prayer is that believers will get serious about their walk with Jesus and stop wasting time on things that really don’t matter in eternity.

If you can’t find a church that is keeping it’s doors open why not start a small group in your own home? Spend time encouraging and building up the body of Christ. Allow your home to be a place where people can hear the gospel, perhaps even for the first time. If you don’t want to preach or teach yourself there are a number of excellent preaching/teaching videos you can purchase or even watch on the internet for free and than discuss afterwards. Prayer, worship and communion can be done beautifully in a small group setting in your home. Find a way to continue to meet and grow in your faith with other believers. It is vital.

It is sad but many churches will never open their doors again. Home church is a great alternative for those who find themselves church orphans. With religious freedoms being attacked it may be the way of the future for all believers worldwide. Ask the LORD if this is something He would like you to do and if it is pray for direction on how to go about starting it. Another option is to house a small group bible study. Perhaps even tap into an online bible study through your church and have others who may not have access to the internet attend and be able to enjoy good solid teaching.

Moving forward in our new reality, it is so important we don’t isolate ourselves from other Christians. Too many have gotten comfortable staying in their own homes watching a 30 minute message from their couch and than doing nothing the rest of the week to support or build up the body of Christ. That is NOT what we have been called to do. We are to be about our Father’s business until He takes us home or we see the face of our beautiful Savior when He appear to take us home. Isolation makes us vulnerable to deception and loneliness. God didn’t create any of us to be islands. We are to function as a body with many parts, each one important in it’s own way. So ask the LORD for direction on what you can do to fulfill your part.

Hebrews 10: 23-25 Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.  Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.   And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.

Have a blessed day!

This Little Light

Jan26

I woke up this morning and that song, “This Little Light of Mine,” was playing in my head. Though it’s a simple child-like song it is full of truth. Today, with the current geopolitical situation it is so critical we let our light shine. People are fearful and uncertain about the days ahead. Leaders seem to give people more reason to not trust than to trust their leadership. People are much more open to hearing why you and I still have peace!

I believe with all my heart that the LORD wants us to shine our light everywhere we go right now. There are still so many living in the darkness without the joy of salvation. People that used to be hardhearted to the gospel in comfortable and much more stable times are now more open to hearing some Good News!

With Biblical prophecies being fulfilled before our very eyes we can rest assured that our beautiful Savior will soon be appearing for His Bride. I would encourage each of you followers of Christ to encourage yourself in the Word. Stay in fellowship with other believers. Keep in close contact with God in prayer and share the gospel with those you know and love and those you meet. Eternity for many, may just be a conversation away. Use what remaining time we have to ensure you have been faithful to Christ and you have run the good race.

John 9:4,5 We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the One who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work.  But while I am here in the world, I am the light of the world.”

Be blessed!

God’s Got This

Jul21

The past few months have drastically changed our world. Our lives have become much more limited in regards to what we can do outside our own homes and also how we can do things. Many of our taken for granted freedoms have gone.

Church gatherings have had to become much more creative in order to continue to be able to meet. Families have had to postpone so many events due to limited numbers being able to gather. Life as we knew it no longer exists.

All that being said, do we need to wring our hands in worry? No. None of this is taking God by surprise. We are living in exciting days where prophecy is being lived out before our actual eyes. God’s got things under control. The characters are all lining up to play their parts in what is to come.

Christians, we have more reason than ever to not be afraid. If we are watching, we can surely see things lining up for our beautiful Savior and King’s appearance. This is the time to get serious about sharing the gospel with those who haven’t heard. This is the time to encourage our brothers and sisters in Christ. This is the time to spend time on our knees asking the Lord what it is He wants us to do today, and every day until He appears. This is not the time to get distracted by things that keep us from abiding in Christ. There is no time to waste.

Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.  And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.~ Hebrews 10:24,25

So why not start your day today in prayer? Ask God what it is you can do for Him today? Who should you speak to? What can you do for a brother or sister in Christ? Seek Him and His will for you today.

And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died so you will not grieve like people who have no hope.  For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died.

 We tell you this directly from the Lord: We who are still living when the Lord returns will not meet him ahead of those who have died. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the believers who have died will rise from their graves.  Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever.  So encourage each other with these words. ~ 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

He’s still moving! We must too!

Feb23

The last few weeks have been so busy. I have not had time to write as often as I like due to other commitments and responsibilities. Today I am happy to be able to settle in for a few minutes and share some of the things I see God doing in my small circle of life. We serve an awesome God, who not only hears the prayers of His saints but answers them in some pretty awesome ways! Not always in the way we expect, in fact very seldom in the way we expect but in much better ways.

I belong to a smaller country church that through prayer has been growing substantially. Numbers don’t mean much but the growth we are experiencing is also in a body hungering for more of God. Our bible study groups have grown, our worship teams are continually growing and the praise is most times out of this world! Our Pastor is preaching with power and anointing and the congregation is being fed. It is all as a result of the fervent prayer of the saints! We hear of churches having a hard time keeping their doors open, yet ours is growing in all the right areas.  I am so thankful to God for hearing our prayers and answering in the most wonderful ways.

I am also very privileged so see one of our son’s join the ministry. The changes God has done in his heart and life are nothing short of remarkable! As parents, when we see the lives of our children flourish in Christ it has got to be one of the most wonderful blessings we can have. God is awesome!

Also, our church has been joining  together over the last six months or so with a number of other churches for an evening gathering  of worship and prayer. This has been very exciting. To see multiple congregations gather for the sole purpose of worshiping and praying together is a beautiful example of the unity Christ offers the church! No barriers, just one family gathering together.

Despite the fact we are witnessing a wave rising against the body of Christ around the world right now we are called to continue in the work He has called each of us to do. Abide in Christ, pray, seek, study, grow and most of all love on those He puts in our path.  We are to continue working for our King and His Kingdom until He takes us up or calls us home!

His work continues. His Kingdom is growing. His church is being refined. Don’t allow any type of sin or discouragement distract you from moving forward! Instead get plugged in to a church body that is preaching the Word, moving in the Spirit and ministering to the body needs. Time is short. Don’t waste it on things that really don’t matter. Be ready for His return!

I will finish with some words of wisdom from Apostle Paul;

Ephesians 5:1-21 NKJV 5 Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.3 But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; 4 neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not be partakers with them.8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), 10 finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. 11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. 12 For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret.13 But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light. 14 Therefore He says:  “Awake, you who sleep, arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.”15 See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, 16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.18 And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, 20 giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,21 submitting to one another in the fear of God.

 

Hold to, spur on, meet and encourage!

Sep16

Last week my husband and I spent a week vacationing in the Dominican Republic. It was a great rest for both of us. We were fortunate enough to meet some new friends who are currently missionaries there. One is a fellow blogger.  It was such a blessing to meet people who are helping people in the most practical ways, right where the rubber meets the road. People who are not afraid to get their hands dirty when reaching down to help others in some pretty dark places. It encouraged me to do more.

Meeting with fellow believers should do just that. If we are fulfilling the plan God has for our lives it should encourage others to do the same.  We need each other. We all have times of discouragement and difficulty but God has provided us with a very large family! A family we can turn to for support, encouragement and love. A family of likeminded people who can keep us grounded in the Word of God and keep us in check should we begin to wander into the wider path.

Though our relationship with Christ must be personal, He has given us a large family for support, correction, love and to labor alongside of. The Word of God tells us just how important it is that we maintain relationship with our spiritual family.

Hebrews 10:23-25 NIV 23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

When we look around us today we can be assured that the Day of Christ’s return is not that far off. It is so important that as the days grow more evil, we spur one another on toward love and good deeds. There will be times we will feel discouraged with what we see happening but that is not the time to stop sharing the gospel, doing good deeds or being the hands and feet of Christ. It will be the time to spur one another on!  We must not give up meeting together. As the Lord’s return draws closer we must stop making excuses of why we cannot get to church, or bible study or any other gathering of the body of Christ. There is nothing more important than growing in our faith and doing His works! We need one another’s support and wisdom.  And lastly, we must encourage one another all the more as time passes. God has created each of us with a need for others. He did not create us to be an island of our own. We need to be available and supportive to our brothers and sisters in Christ for prayer, sharing of the Word and fellowship.

Lord I pray today that You will reveal to us how important it is that we hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, our hope in the return of our beautiful Savior! Open our eyes to see how important it is that we spur on one another in good deeds! Help us to realize the importance of meeting regularly with our church families! Help us to encourage one another as You would encourage us Lord.  Let us not be found sleeping when You return, but let us be found busy doing Your works inside the church and outside the church.

In the precious name of Jesus we pray, Amen.

 

Thank YOU for the cross!

Apr16

 

2Corinthians 5:21NKJV 21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

2Corinthians 5:21 NKJV
21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

With Easter approaching, it is a good time to reflect on just what Christ did for each of us when He died on the cross. As we think on what He achieved through His painful death on the cross let’s approach this Easter with a thankful heart! Without His enduring the scourgings, false accusations, and crucifixion there would be no way for us to enter into fellowship with the Father. He provided THE WAY. If He at any point in His suffering lashed back and refused to endure, we would still be living a life without hope, without true joy and without the assurance of our salvation. For many of us who are gentiles, we would be outside the family of God with no way in. Thankfully, He did endure the cross and when He did, He willingly took upon Himself my sin and yours! Praise God!

Let’s take a fresh look at what the cross accomplished when we reflect on just a few verses today…

1John 2:2 NKJV 2 And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world.   (The definition of propitiation taken from Theopedia is “The turning away of wrath by an offering. In relation to soteriology, propitiation means placating or satisfying the wrath of God by the atoning sacrifice of Christ.” 

Romans 5:10 NKJV 10 For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.

1 Corinthians 15:3-5  NKJV 3 For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that He was seen by Cephas, then by the twelve.

1 Peter 1:17-19 NKJV 17 And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear; 18 knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.

And finally, one of my favorite verses…

2 Corinthians 5:21 NKJV 21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.   It blesses me so much to know that He willing became sin for me, though it was painful and temporarily caused separation from the Father, and not only did that but  replaced my sin with righteousness in HIM!  That is powerful! That is amazing! That is ultimate love!

As you spend this Easter perhaps with loved ones and friends, don’t forget to spend time with your Redeemer! He has made it possible for you and I to enjoy eternal life and a joyful life here on earth regardless of our circumstances. Take the time to thank Him for what He has done for you!

 

 

YOU and I are His disciples!

Feb3

John 15:16 16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.

John 15:16 16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.

There is so much going on in our world right now that could cause us to be distracted from the calling on our lives. We have sports, entertainment, family responsibilities and gatherings, jobs, electronics etc.. It is easy to become waylaid from the purposes God has called us to accomplish.  Each day it is a choice as to whether we will fulfill His purposes for our lives  or we will fulfill our own goals and purposes.  Do we spend more time in front of the tv than in the Word of God? Do we waste time gossiping instead of interceding for others? Do we choose to stay home and relax instead of getting ourselves to church on Sunday? We are daily faced with these type of decisions and sadly many Christians are choosing the way of their own comfort.

We have been given the gift of salvation through a Savior that lovingly died for us yet often we can’t even bring ourselves to spend any time with Him in prayer or in the Word of God. Too often, we would entertain ourselves with things that have little to no lasting spiritual significance. When we made the decision to follow Christ, we became His disciples. As disciples we have a purpose that involves more than our own comfort.

The online Merriam-Webster dictionary gives the following definition of a disciple..

dis·ci·ple

noun \di-ˈsī-pəl\

: someone who accepts and helps to spread the teachings of a famous person

: one of a group of 12 men who were sent out to spread the teachings of Jesus Christ

A disciple has a very distinct purpose and that purpose is to accept and help spread the teachings of their leader, who as Christians, is Christ.  This is not the purpose of just a select few but is the purpose for each and every one of us who calls Christ our Lord and Savior.  Each of us will have a different group of individuals that we are to impact but we are all His disciples and therefore we are all called to share the gospel.  When we choose our own comfort over sharing the gospel we are not being true followers of Christ.  Let’s take a look at a few verses from the Bible on being disciples…

Matthew 28:19-20 NIV 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

John 8:31 NIV 31 To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.

John 13:35 NIV 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

John 15:8 NIV 8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.

John 15:16 NIV 16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.

Romans 10:14-15 NIV 14 How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? 15 And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”

And finally…

Hebrews 10:25 NIV 23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

If we are to be true followers of Christ we cannot be Christians in name alone. We must daily make the decision to obey Him and His leading in our lives. We are to share the good news with those who desperately need to hear it! We need to encourage our brothers and sisters who may be struggling and we need to continue to move forward in the power of the Holy Spirit. Every single one of us has been called with a purpose and we all need to be doing our part in the body until Jesus returns or He calls us home.

If you have become a Sunday seat warmer only, ask God to forgive you of your spiritual idleness and stir up in you a desire to fulfill the purposes He has called you to do. Don’t waste another day!

Lord, I ask that you would forgive me for my spiritual laziness that has allowed me to put my comfort before Your purposes for my life. Please stir up in me the giftings that You have given me and show me what I can do this day to further Your kingdom. Give me a heart that loves what You love and hates what You hate and empower me to demonstrate that love to those who need it.  In the precious name of Jesus,  Amen.

WE are family

Jan20

John 1:12 NIV 12 Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.

John 1:12 NIV 12 Yet to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.

As followers of Christ, we inherit the blessings of having a church family. Our church family is not just within the walls of our own church but is worldwide. We are brothers and sisters with other followers of Christ from Canada to Australia and everywhere in between. It is so important that we don’t lose sight of that in our prayer lives. We need to hold up the body of Christ everywhere. For those who are suffering persecution in foreign lands, for those who are being sifted through trials, for those who are enduring hardships of their own making, we are called to intercede for them all because one day we will all stand together before Christ as one family, though from many tribes and tongues!  Revelation 7:9-10 NIV 9 After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. 10 And they cried out in a loud voice:

“Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.”

I have noticed in my own walk and in the walk of others that the enemy loves nothing more than to separate us from our brothers and sisters. He likes to isolate us. When we have  engaged in sin one of the first things we hear inside our heads is condemnation.  If we continue to listen to the accuser instead of simply repenting and moving forward in our walk with Christ, Satan will use that condemnation and shame to isolate us from the ones we need the most. God created us with the need for fellowship. Just as He longs for fellowship with us, He has created a desire for fellowship inside us to have an abiding relationship with Him and with our brothers and sisters in Christ. Though each of us has unique giftings and talents, we are not created to stand alone or to operate alone. We are to operate as a family, each fulfilling his or her function.

When we stumble, fall, or just get discouraged along the way, it is important to reach out to our church family. It is humbling to do so but it brings with it great rewards. We have a safe place to come to for prayer, love and encouragement. All things each of us will need from time to time. When we pull back from our church family, we often find ourselves becoming discouraged, lonely and left to feel rather isolated. Bingo, Satan has succeeded in keeping us from moving forward in our walk of faith!

Several years ago, after a series of tragedies  in my life, I became very discouraged. I wondered where God was when I was suffering? I pulled away from the church and thought I would be better off figuring things out on my own. Let me just say that it just prolonged my sorrow. I wasted precious time wallowing when I could have been enjoying the love and support of my brothers and sisters in Christ.  I am so grateful to God for wooing me back into the arms of a church family. Though, no church is  perfect, it is still the best place to be for spiritual growth, encouragement, love and support. It is also a place where God will train us up in our giftings, if we let Him.

If you find yourself feeling isolated and apart from the body of Christ, ask God to give you direction in finding a church home.  He didn’t create any of us to be islands. We function best and are most fulfilled when we work as a family. We just happen to have a very large family that encompasses every country in the globe and there is certainly a church family out there waiting for you and the giftings God has given you.  Don’t postpone your loneliness and isolation. Ask God for direction in finding the church family He has waiting for you.

Hebrews 10:24,25 NIV 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Give the gift of HOPE

Jan16

If there is one word to sum up what is lacking in this world of ours my guess is it would be “hope”. For those who have not come into a personal relationship with Christ there is not much to be hopeful for. Politicians reveal corrupt natures on a regular basis, the economy has caused many to lose their homes and savings, evil exists in every city and country, innocent people are being imprisoned for years for their beliefs while pedophiles get off with light sentences.  Is it any wonder that so many struggle with depression and suicide rates have increased?

The World Health Organization states that:

  • Every year, almost one million people die from suicide; this roughly corresponds to one death every 40 seconds.
  • Suicide is among the three leading causes of death among those aged 15-44 years in some countries, and the second leading cause of death in the 10-24 years age group; these figures do not include suicide attempts which can be many times more frequent than suicide (10, 20, or more times according to some studies). http://www.who.int/mental_health/prevention/suicide/suicideprevent/en/index.html

It’s a dark world we live in. Without “hope” many just give up. Proverbs 13:12 explains why, 12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick,  but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life

If this world, as it is, was all we had to look forward to it would be easy to understand the lack of “hope” we see in most people.  But it isn’t!  We have every reason to hope. God has provided a way for a better life in this present world and in the world to come through Jesus His Son! Through salvation, we have direct access to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. We receive His Holy Spirit to guide us and direct us. Our longing has been fulfilled through Christ! We can now  operate out of the love Christ has shed in our hearts and thereby are able to make even this world we live in a much better place while we wait on Heaven!

It is so important that we share this “hope” we have received. The same gift we have been given is available to everyone who will call upon the name of Jesus. Without this hope many people will go on to live sad, unfulfilled lives struggling to take them into an  eternity that will be even worse. When we share Christ with others we give them the gift of hope, knowing that He will take whatever mess their life has become, and mold it into something wonderful, just as He did with each of us that know Him as Savior and Lord.  We are to “overflow with hope” as the word of God tells us in Romans 15:13 NIV 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Why not let your hope overflow into the life of another today?  Reach out to someone that needs to see the “hope” we have demonstrated by your being the hands and feet of Christ. Let them hear of the “hope” we have through sharing the salvation message of Christ.

As we wait on the blessed hope of Christ’s return, let’s collectively share our present hope with those that need to hear! The book of Titus lays it out so perfectly… Titus 2:11-14 NIV 11 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13 while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, 14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

Lord, today use me to demonstrate the “hope” you offer to others that don’t know you or those that have been sidelined by sin and the cares of this world. Let my actions and words share the truth of who You are and the hope that You offer each and every person that willingly turns to You.

In your beautiful name Jesus,

Amen.

Forgiveness opens the door for change!

Dec6

 I was  sad to hear of the passing of Nelson Mandela yesterday. Over the years I have admired his decision to forgive and live out that forgiveness in his actions. He was a man that stood out because he didn’t respond to prejudism with hatred and bitterness. He had the wisdom to realize that real change in South Africa, would only come with forgiveness and reconciliation. Hatred would just prolong the fighting and nothing good would ever be accomplished.

The Word of God teaches us this same principle. We are to live a life that demonstrates forgiveness. Our own forgiveness is conditional upon us forgiving others as we read in Luke 6:37 NIV 37 “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.  Nelson Mandela was able to bring about amazing change in South Africa that eventually spread to other parts of the globe because he implemented this principle.  I can’t help but think about the awesome opportunity for change each and every one of us that follow Christ have. In our families, in our churches, in our neighborhoods and in our world, we can all make a difference when we love like Jesus loves, when we refuse to judge and condemn and when we forgive.

Christ does not want us to spend our time fighting battles of bitterness and unforgiveness. He wants us to use our time to love Him and serve others. My prayer is that we will not waste any more time walking in  unforgiveness but will do as Paul says in Colossians 3:12-14 NIV 12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

If we start each day with this scripture in mind, we too will make an amazing difference in our world.

Busyness without abiding = wheel spinning

Oct24

There are times when we feel like our lives are stagnating. Though we may be incredibly busy, we just don’t see ourselves moving forward in any particular direction. This is often a time of personal spiritual reflection. A time for us to seek the face of God for direction. My prayer is that during this time we will not jump into more “spiritual” activity. Instead, use the time to get deeper into the Word of God and spend more time talking to the lover of our soul.  Though busyness can make us appear very spiritual, if we are not doing what God has called us to do in the right spirit, we are just spinning our wheels.  He longs for us to abide in Him, leaning on Him for His strength and guidance as we do His will.

If  you find yourself feeling rather useless right now, begin to seek His face. Talk to Him, read His Word and ask for direction at the beginning of each day. He doesn’t want us doing “His deeds” without Him. He wants relationship. He wants our attention. He wants our love and devotion. It is through abiding in Him and His Word that we are to live out our lives. We are not to do what we deem our spiritual duty, checking in with Him once in a while for approval. We are to seek Him daily and allow Him to use us for His service as He leads, all the while obeying what we know to be His will.

Jesus himself, told us of the importance of remaining close to Him. It is out of that abiding that we will bear spiritual fruit for His Kingdom.

John 15:4-5 NIV 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.

If you find yourself just trying to stay busy (even doing “His deeds”)  in order to cover the emptiness inside, perhaps it’s time to get plugged back into the source. Spend time with Jesus today. Let Him know how you are feeling. Ask for direction. Ask for a renewed love and increase in faith. He longs to give us good gifts!  Spend time in His Word. It is a love letter to each of us from God Himself. When we come to Him with a sincere heart He will not ignore us! He is faithful to answer! He has been waiting to hear from you.

“Our greatest fear should not be of failure but of succeeding at things in life that don’t really matter.” ~Francis Chan

Is there a flame you need to fan?

Oct1

2 Timothy 1:6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.

2 Timothy 1:6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.

I woke up this morning to my radio alarm. It was tuned to our local Christian radio program and the commentator was relaying a story of a close friend of his from the past, that was currently going through some very dark times.  Through an email this friend from the past, reminded him how he had once belonged to a good church and had had a fire down in his belly for God. He didn’t say what had happened in his life to cause him to fall away, only that his friend was now down, depressed and desperate. As the commentator read the letter he had received from this friend his voice kept breaking and it was obvious his heart was breaking too.  What I loved about this story was that this friend’s mother had once been the commentators Sunday School teacher and had taught him a verse that he would now be able to share with her son.

As soon as the commentator  finished reading the letter the Lord brought to remembrance this verse that had many years before been taught to him by this precious Sunday school teacher…. 2 Timothy 1:6,7 NIV6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

For those of us who know people that had once walked with Christ and yet for various reasons allowed the cares of this world to draw them away, may we allow God to use us to help fan their flame!  Let’s be a demonstration of the love of Christ to them and remind them how much He longs to have their fellowship. Rather than gossip about them, let’s allow the Spirit of God to move through us as we reach out to them in love and welcome them back into our lives and churches. Allow God to use you to fan the flame of faith in someone else today!

Are you walking out the gospel?

Sep26

mark10-44 When a person loses a loved one we often see family and friends reach out to them and love on them. With our family and friends we kind of expect that that would be the case because we know them and love them.  Last week during our visit to the U.S. for my brother in laws funeral, I was quite simply blown away by the love demonstrated by the Pastors and members of Greenbriar Church in Albany,Georgia. (http://www.greenbriarchurch.net/)

I haven’t stopped thinking about the way they loved on my sister, her husbands brother and all of our family. It was New Testament church being demonstrated even though my sister and brother in law were no longer attending there due to a job relocation!

It made such an impact on my husband and I  that I have shared the experience with my own church and friends since returning. The Pastors actually drove drove by car from Georgia to Florida and back to be there for the actual funeral and also held a beautiful memorial service for my brother in law at their home church in Georgia, which we all attended.  From the moment they arrived in Florida till the end of our time in Georgia the members and friends went out of their way to take care of my sister and all of us.  Their church logo is   “For God. For this City” and it really should include and “For Beyond!”

Their love, compassion and efforts by all, so beautifully demonstrated the love God has for each of us. The love that Christ has for us really was shown through our brothers and sisters in Georgia.  I am so inspired to do more for my own community after seeing this. Each of us followers of Christ have the ability to do something for others. Jesus calls us to be people of action and I have been inspired to demonstrate the love of Christ more.

So THANK YOU to all the Pastors and members of Greenbriar Church. THANK YOU to all of my sisters wonderful friends who loved on her and did so much to turn a time of sorrow in to a time of love! You have all inspired me so much.  Not only did you share the gospel but you lived the gospel!

My prayer is that each one of us followers of Christ will ask God to show us ways we can demonstrate the love Jesus has for others. To quote Francis Chan,  “I believe God wants us to love others so much that we go to extremes to help them.”  

News worth sharing!

Jun3

I know I am not alone in noticing the exciting changes in the Church. By church, I don’t mean my church only but the body of Christ in general. It appears so many more believers are getting serious about their relationship with Christ. The atmosphere is changing. There is a deeper hunger for more of God and less religion, pomp and pretense!

In our church, sometimes the presence of God is so precious that people don’t want to leave. But leave we must! We are very blessed to be able to corporately meet in prayer, fellowship and worship but God does not want us to hoard Jesus. He wants us to share the gospel so that all men and women everywhere have an opportunity to come to know the lover of their souls! The Bible confirms this in 1Timothy 2: 1-7 NIV 2 I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time. 7 And for this purpose I was appointed a herald and an apostle—I am telling the truth, I am not lying—and a true and faithful teacher of the Gentiles.

It’s important that we meet regularly and be taught by our Pastors and pray with and be encouraged by our brothers and sisters in Christ but let’s not forget the gospel is the “good news” and news is to be shared! Ask the Lord today how you can be used to share the good news. There are so many hurting, broken people that need Christ and if we don’t share the gospel with them, who will?

Are you hiding from the Light?

Apr4

Jeremiah 23:24 NIV "Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see ?" declares the Lord. "Do not I fill heaven and earth?" declares the Lord.

Jeremiah 23:24 NIV “Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them?” declares the Lord. “Do not I fill heaven and earth?” declares the Lord.

I am thankful to God for His patience with me.  I am so grateful that He is slow to anger and kind. That He longs for fellowship with each and every one of us.  I can remember at one time believing that whenever I screwed up in my walk with Christ, God would be angry with me, so I would find myself avoiding Him for a while. I would steer clear of  the intimacy of prayer as it would require my having to come clean and fess up.

Before too long however,  I would miss our fellowship. I would toss up the odd prayer but with no real expectancy due to the fact I knew there were things between us putting up a barrier from intimacy. Eventually I would cave and come before Him with a heart of repentance and fess up. The peace and freedom that would follow was amazing. I’m not sure why I ever thought things would get better on their own!

I am thankful that I no longer try and hide anything from Him. He sees all, knows all and it is a complete and utter waste of time allowing any sin to remain between us.  When I screw up now, I don’t waste the time  I used to fessing up. It keeps the lines of communication open with the lover of my soul. It allows for instant access and freedom in making my requests known when I come to Him with a need for others or for myself.  If you have drifted from intimacy in your prayer life, perhaps it’s time you tear down the  barriers.

If  you have sin in your life you have been holding onto, hoping neither God nor anyone else will see it,  it’s time to get rid of it!  Don’t waste another day without intimacy with the King of  Kings.

The Word of God says in 1John 1:9 NIV If we confess our sins He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and will cleanse us of ALL unrighteousness.

Let His light shine  into all the dark areas of your life. Don’t allow anything to keep you from coming boldly to the throne!

John 3:19-21 NIV 19 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. 20 Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. 21 But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light,  so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.

No longer a slave!

Feb11

Galatians 5:1 5 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

Galatians 5:1 5 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

When we accepted Christ into our lives we not only received salvation and eternal life but we also received the Holy Spirit. The Word of God tells us that where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom! 2 Corinthians 3:17 NIV 17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

God has provided us freedom from the bondage of sin. We no longer have to be controlled by habitual sin and striving. As we turn to Christ, He will guide us and lead us away from and apart from those things that used to easily ensnare us! Hebrews 12:1-2 NKJV 12 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Now that we have been made free, it is so important that we don’t become spiritually lazy. We need to be reading the Word of God, be in prayer and fellowship on a regular basis. Without doing these things we will begin to compromise our walk with Christ. Life as a believer is exciting. We get to see the hand of God move first hand in our lives and the lives of those around us. Let’s not take for granted all that Christ has done. Let’s run the race He has set before us. If we are busy spending time in the presence of God we will not want to do those things that end up causing us pain and separation from the lover of our soul.

God has bought you freedom from spiritual bondage at a great price! The price of His precious Son. Don’t take it for granted. Instead enjoy intimacy with Him while you read your Bible and learn who He is and how much He loves you. Talk to Him. He is never more than a breath away. And lastly stand firm. Don’t look back or side to side. Move on forward in love and obedience. God has great things in store for each of us and if you allow the things that once held you in bondage to gain a foothold back in your life you will not only lose your intimacy with God but you will lose sight of the purpose for which He has called you.

Galatians 5:1 NIV 5 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

No man/woman is an island..

Aug8

In the garden of Eden, God said it was not good for Adam to be alone. It is the same today, we need one another. We have been created for fellowship. If we neglect spending time with others we can become lonely and bitter. The majority of us love to get together with family and or friends and spend time talking, laughing and just sharing life. It can be like a tonic that rejuvenates us!

As Christians it is just as important that we spend time with  fellow believers. God has equipped us all with different gifts and strengths that are made to be shared. We can gain so much from one another. When dark times come, it’s great to know there are other people not only praying on your behalf but available when you need an encouraging word. Then there are times when we may need some fine tuning in our thinking or actions and who better to receive it from than another believer who has your best interest at heart.

We are so fortunate to have a second family that is there to build us up in our faith, encourage us, correct us when we are going off the tracks and to share the amazing things God is doing in our lives.  No wonder the scripture says in Hebrews 10:25 NIV 23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another —and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

If you’re not currently attending a church where you can use your strengths and  gifts and receive the benefit of the strengths and  gifts of others it’s time to find one.  God knows the need we have to give and receive encouragement and therefore warns us not to stop meeting together.  There are so many benefits that come from gathering together with fellow believers.  Here are just a few verses that demonstrate some of them…

Acts 15:32 NIV 32 Judas and Silas, who themselves were prophets, said much to encourage and strengthen the believers.

Colossians 3:16 NIV 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.

1 Peter 4:8-10 NIV 8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 

For anyone that doesn’t have a Church family, I would encourage you to pray for direction in finding one.  It can be such a great blessing in your life, both in giving of yourself and in receiving from others!

No man is an island,
Entire of itself.
Each is a piece of the continent,
A part of the main.~John Donne

Importance of Fellowship

Jun25

There are so many things that keep us busy these days.   Jobs, family, volunteering and too many other things to list.  It doesn’t take too long before we can get bogged down with responsibilities. To keep on the right track and to keep joy in our lives we need to have a good prayer life and time spent in the word. These are two basics that keep our spiritual feet firmly on the ground. Along with these two things we also need fellowship. God didn’t create us to be islands. We need one another. We need the support of prayer and conversation from other believers. In the New Testament church, the apostles worked along side one another and encouraged each other as the need arose. This need hasn’t diminished but because many of us work outside the church the need is vital to have the support of believers to keep us walking right.

This past weekend we held our church picnic at our home and it was great to spend time having fun with our brothers and sisters in Christ. There was no drama, no discord just a group of people that love God having a blast with one another. When we get to know each other better we are better equipped to pray and help one another.  We live in a world where many live and look out for themselves. In the church we need to be sure we don’t allow that to become our lifestyle.  God has called us all to serve.  If we get too bogged down we are not fit to help anyone. Having fellowship is vital. Whether it be a picnic, a potluck or a prayer meeting, we need one another.  It can help recharge our spiritual batteries and remind us we are not lone wolves but we are a body, a body that serves and encourages one another and that reaches out and serves our families, our communities and our world.

1Peter 4:9 NIV  9Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.

Romans 12:10 NIV 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.

Galatians 5:13 NIV 1313 You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.

Make time for fellowship.